What is Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

Estradiol is a form of estrogen. Estrogen is a female sex hormone that is involved in the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system.

Norethindrone is a form of progesterone. Progesterone is a female hormone important for the regulation of ovulation and menstruation.

Together, estradiol and norethindrone are used to treat the symptoms of menopause such as feelings of warmth in the face, neck and chest, or sudden intense spells of heat and sweating (“hot flashes” or “hot flushes”); to treat vulvar and vaginal changes (itching, burning, dryness in or around the vagina, difficulty or burning with urination) caused by menopause; and to replace estrogen in conditions such as hypogonadism, removal of the ovaries, or primary ovarian failure that result in a lack of estrogen. Estradiol and norethindrone is also used to prevent thinning of the bones (osteoporosis).

Estradiol and norethindrone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

Do not take estradiol and norethindrone without first talking to your doctor if you have

• a circulation, bleeding, or blood-clotting disorder
• undiagnosed, abnormal vaginal bleeding
• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer; or
• liver disease

Taking estradiol and norethindrone may be dangerous in some cases if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Before taking estradiol and norethindrone, tell your doctor if you have

• high blood pressure, angina, or heart disease
• high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in your blood
• kidney disease
• asthma
• epilepsy
• migraines
• depression
• diabetes
• gallbladder disease
• uterine fibroids; or
• had a hysterectomy (uterus removed)

You may not be able to take estradiol and norethindrone, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Estradiol and norethindrone is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that estradiol and norethindrone is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not take estradiol and norethindrone if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

Estradiol and norethindrone may decrease milk flow and have other effects on milk composition. Do not take estradiol and norethindrone without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Activella Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking estradiol and norethindrone and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives)
• shortness of breath or pain in the chest
• a painful, red, swollen leg
• abnormal vaginal bleeding
• pain, swelling, or tenderness in the abdomen
• severe headache or vomiting, dizziness, faintness or changes in vision or speech
• yellowing of the skin or eyes; or
• a lump in a breast

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take estradiol and norethindrone and talk to your doctor if you experience

• nausea and vomiting
• tenderness or enlargement of the breasts
• weakness
• swelling of the hands or feet
• spotty darkening of the skin, particularly on the face
• difficulty in wearing contact lenses
• vaginal irritation or discomfort; or
• changes in menstrual cycle, painful menstruation, or break-through bleeding

Estradiol increases the risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus. Using a progestin, such as norethindrone, with estradiol lowers the risk of developing this condition. Visit your doctor regularly and report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away.

It is unclear to what extent estrogen and progesterone treatments may affect the risk of breast cancer.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Activella Interactions

What other drugs affect Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

Before taking estradiol and norethindrone, tell your doctor if you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner) such as warfarin (Coumadin). You may not be able to take estradiol and norethindrone, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with estradiol and norethindrone. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

What should I avoid while taking Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking estradiol and norethindrone unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Activella Dosage

How should I take Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

Take estradiol and norethindrone exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a glass of water.

Try to take each dose at the same time every day.

Have yearly physical exams and examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while taking estradiol and norethindrone.

Store ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone tablets at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct light.

What happens if I overdose on Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

Contact an emergency room or poison control center for advice if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a estradiol and norethindrone overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in females.

What happens if I miss a dose of Activella (Estradiol Norethindrone)?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

Edited from everydayhealth.com